From the pyramids and the Parthenon to the Sydney Opera House and the Bilbao Guggenheim; this book takes readers on an eye-opening tour of the mathematics behind some of the worlds most spectacular buildings. Beautifully illustrated; the book explores the milestones in elementary mathematics that enliven the understanding of these buildings and combines this with an in-depth look at their aesthetics; history; and structure. Whether using trigonometry and vectors to explain why Gothic arches are structurally superior to Roman arches; or showing how simple ruler and compass constructions can produce sophisticated architectural details; Alexander Hahn describes the points at which elementary mathematics and architecture intersect. Beginning in prehistoric times; Hahn proceeds to guide readers through the Greek; Roman; Islamic; Romanesque; Gothic; Renaissance; and modern styles. He explores the unique features of the Pantheon; the Hagia Sophia; the Great Mosque of Cordoba; the Duomo in Florence; Palladios villas; and Saint Peters Basilica; as well as the U.S. Capitol Building. Hahn celebrates the forms and structures of architecture made possible by mathematical achievements from Greek geometry; the Hindu-Arabic number system; two- and three-dimensional coordinate geometry; and calculus. Along the way; Hahn introduces groundbreaking architects; including Brunelleschi; Alberti; da Vinci; Bramante; Michelangelo; della Porta; Wren; Gaudiacute;; Saarinen; Utzon; and Gehry. Rich in detail; this book takes readers on an expedition around the globe; providing a deeper understanding of the mathematical forces at play in the worlds most elegant buildings.
#4584737 in eBooks 2012-06-21 2012-06-21File Name: B008L5HNX8
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